Studies investigating the role of religion in coping with stress, loss, or death have found that religion is an important variable. In one study, religion was cited as the most effective coping mechanism for dealing with loss. In another study, 78% participants reported that religion helped them cope with serious and bad events.
Faith as a source of emotional healing
Religion has been cited as an important resource for coping with many health problems. Positive changes include reduced symptoms of depression, increased life satisfaction, shorter hospital stays, and reduced alcohol abuse. Over the past century, more than 80 studies have found that religious/spiritual factors are associated with less depression. Researchers have found that spiritual resources help patients cope better with the physical and emotional stress of surgery, as well as with chronic or serious health problems. One study found that elderly women who reported that God was their source of strength and comfort had the best outcomes after hip fracture surgery.
In addition, these women attended religious services more frequently. They suffered less from depression and were able to walk further after being discharged from the hospital than those who were not spiritually committed.
The results of the study seem to be unequivocal: religious beliefs and faith are beneficial both physically and emotionally. This should not be too surprising! God’s desire is for us to have abundant lives filled with health, peace, purpose, and meaning.
God's closeness in times of difficulty
When you are going through an emotionally difficult time, talk to God. Dwell on His Word and seek His face. Continue to trust Him. Although we do not know what the future holds, we can be sure that God is on our side and wants the best for us. He wants us to trust Him and enjoy a close relationship with Him. Look up to God, focus on Him, and let His love and peace still your soul. When you focus on God and His transforming love, you will rise above your difficulties. Knowing Him brings healing. In John 10:10, Christ says, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” He wants to give us the life He designed for us when we were created.
Source: “CREATION Life”
“CREATION Life” is a way of thinking that sees the person as a whole. This way of thinking is designed to prevent disease and to help people live fuller and more abundant lives at all ages. “CREATION Life” is based on the Bible’s creation story and is the foundation of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s health ministry. “CREATION Life” is an institution Adventist Health owned trademark.
